An apparently drunk Irish tourist wreaked havoc at the Brussels Stock Exchange just one day after its grand reopening following a three-year, $150 million restoration. The man's reckless escapade, fuelled by alleged intoxication, saw him attempting to mount a massive lion statue that guards the historic edifice.
The dramatic episode, captured on camera, culminated in a piece of the statue, likely the torch it held, breaking off in the process. Subsequently, the tourist found himself in police custody at a nearby fast-food establishment, expressing his ignorance about the extent of the damage he had inflicted.
The restoration of the statue is now estimated to cost a hefty $19,000 (Rs 15.83 lakh), and the Brussels Stock Exchange is determined to hold the tourist accountable for this costly blunder.
Nel Vandevennet, the project manager overseeing the restoration effort, voiced the dismay felt by those involved: "We would like to carry out the repairs quickly, but it will surely take a few weeks or even months," he told news outlet VRT NWS. "The whole building has only just been restored to its former glory, including the two lions which were in a bad way. We thought the sculptures would enjoy greater respect. We just think it's very sad this happened."
The Brussels Stock Exchange, now reopened to the public, aspires to become a bustling hub for exhibitions, performances, and a variety of events. Visitors can already enjoy the convenience of an on-site cafe, with plans for a restaurant to follow in the near future.
The building is also home to the Belgian Beer World museum, though it remains uncertain whether the Irishman had ventured within its doors.
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